Whether they call it soccer or football, cheer for Ronaldo or Messi, or just hope their favourite team makes it to the next round of the tournament, fans of the beautiful game will be in high spirits for the next several weeks as this year’s FIFA World Cup continues in Canada, the United States and Mexico.
As soccer fans count down the days until the final match of the tournament, set for Sunday, July 19 in New Jersey, the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, in partnership with the Farmworker Hub at Cornerstone Community Church, is inviting residents and seasonal farmworkers to gather for a community viewing of the championship match at the NOTL Community Centre.
Doors will open at 2:30 p.m., with town greetings are scheduled for 2:45 p.m., followed by kickoff at 3 p.m. in the facility’s auditorium.
Organizers say the gathering was inspired by ideas from community members and the lord mayor, with a focus on fostering inclusion, connection and shared celebration through sport. The event is open to all soccer fans and is intended to bring together residents and seasonal farmworkers in a welcoming, family-friendly setting.
Brittney Kranz, lead co-ordinator of the Farmworker Hub, says she’s thrilled for this event to bring together NOTL’s seasonal farmworkers and its residents.
“The response from our friends on the farms has been overwhelmingly positive, and many are looking forward to coming together to celebrate this exciting event,” she said in a media release. “This event is a wonderful opportunity to build community, celebrate the spirit of the game and bring people together from across Niagara-on-the-Lake.”
“Sport has a unique ability to connect people from different backgrounds, and we are pleased to support an opportunity for residents and members of our farmworker community to gather, celebrate soccer and build relationships,” said Lord Mayor Gary Zalepa.
Attendees will be able to watch the championship match on a large screen, enjoy free refreshments and snacks and visit an information table hosted by the Farmworker Hub highlighting local community services. A draw will also be held during the event, with one participant selected at random to receive a gift basket.
To help ensure accessibility, transportation will be provided for farmworkers travelling from Cornerstone Community Church to the Community Centre. Designated bicycle parking will also be available on site.
